Hand-driven ratchet strap assist device

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a ratchet strap system configured with a ball-shaped handgrip adapted to manipulate a ratchet strap drive shaft. In an illustrative example, the handgrip may include a substantially spherical distal portion coupled to the drive shaft via a substantially cylindrical neck member. The handgrip may, for example, be configured for after-market installation by receiving a shaft extension member of the drive shaft. Some handgrips may include opposing radial apertures for a retention pin to longitudinally fix the handgrip to the shaft extension member. A pliable resilient member disposed at the distal end may prevent decoupling prior to tensioning the strap. In various embodiments, the deployment time of a ratchet strap system may, for example, be reduced by using the handgrip to facilitate initial winding of a load securing strap, and to wind excess strap length for storage in conjunction with an elastic retaining loop.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit and is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/586,012 titled “Hand-Driven Ratchet Strap AssistDevice,” filed by Bradley Jay Willodson on May 3, 2017, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/495,437 titled“Hand-driven assist device for ratchet strap drive mechanism,” filed byBradley Jay Willodson on Sep. 14, 2016.

This application incorporates the entire contents of the foregoingapplication(s) herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments relate generally to ratchet straps.

BACKGROUND

Ratchet straps are tie-down straps that may be tensioned by a ratchet.Some ratchet straps secure cargo or loads. Ratchet straps may be used tosecure loads during transport. Securing heavy loads during transport mayrequire a strap that is very tight. In some scenarios, the strap tensionin a ratchet strap may be very high. Some ratchet straps may have astrap tension release mechanism. Such a ratchet strap tension releasemechanism may be activated by a user to release strap tension securing aload.

Strap tension in some ratchet straps may be adjusted by a ratchetmechanism. Ratchet straps can use a ratchet mechanism to tension a strapanchored at two points. In operation, ratchet straps may wind or spoolthe strap around an axle to tension the strap.

SUMMARY

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a ratchet strap systemconfigured with a ball-shaped handgrip adapted to manipulate a ratchetstrap drive shaft. In an illustrative example, the handgrip may includea substantially spherical distal portion coupled to the drive shaft viaa substantially cylindrical neck member. The handgrip may, for example,be configured for after-market installation by receiving a shaftextension member of the drive shaft. Some handgrips may include opposingradial apertures for a retention pin to longitudinally fix the handgripto the shaft extension member. A pliable resilient member disposed atthe distal end may prevent decoupling prior to tensioning the strap. Invarious embodiments, the deployment time of a ratchet strap system may,for example, be reduced by using the handgrip to facilitate initialwinding of a load securing strap, and to wind excess strap length forstorage in conjunction with an elastic retaining loop.

Various embodiments may achieve one or more advantages. For example,some embodiments may improve ratchet strap jam-clearing safety andefficiency. This facilitation may be a result of a user operating a knobrigidly coupled to the ratchet axle and configured to fit a human hand,for example, to clear a jammed ratchet strap by rotating the knob toback the strap out of the axle. In some embodiments, a multipurposerotatable handgrip coupled to the rotating axle of a ratchet mechanismmay aid users in clearing a strap jam by facilitating the backing-out(unwinding) of the strap without the employment of tools or potentiallyhazardous physical force. Further, users may hold the ratchet mechanismwith one hand while the other hand turns the multipurpose rotatablehandgrip to unwind the strap.

Some embodiments may improve user safety. For example, a jammed strapmay be cleared by turning the multipurpose rotatable handgrip to unwindthe strap. The multipurpose rotatable handgrip may enable a user toapply adequate torque to allow rotation of the spooled-up strapping,thereby releasing the strapping from the ratchet mechanism. In someexamples, as a user is releasing the ratchet tie-down system, the usermay grip the multipurpose rotatable handgrip and release the load in acontrolled manner. The controlled release may safely mitigate arebounding load, and may prevent damage to unbalanced loads. In someembodiments, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip may be referred to as aknob.

Various implementations may provide improved control to an operatorreleasing tension from a strap. Such improved control may be a result ofproviding continuously variable strap tension by manually rotating theknob.

In some examples, an operator may find benefit with the ratchet strapconfigured with a knob, by using the knob to index the slot in the axleto a position where the load securing strap may be conveniently feddirectly through and orthogonal to the mechanism instead of feedinglongitudinally into the mechanism, e.g., which may be an awkward angle.

In some embodiments, the user effort to secure a ratchet strap may bereduced. For example, an operator securing a ratchet strap may avoid thedislodgment of a rigid hook on one strap end by temporarily securing therigid hook on that strap end facilitated with a bendable companion hookcoupled to the rigid hook. The bendable companion hook may support theweight of, and stabilize the position of, the rigid hook. Further, thestabilization of the rigid hook may advantageously act as a second pairof hands while the operator is remotely securing a second rigid hook atthe opposite end of the ratchet tie-down system, and while the operatoris managing the ratchet mechanism.

In some scenarios, securing a load may not require the entire straplength of a ratchet strap. The resulting excess ratchet strap length maypresent a hazard to life or property in various scenarios. In suchexamples, excess strap length may be bundled and retained around theknob. Such hazard reduction may releasably retain an otherwise freestrap end in a bundle coiled around the knob when the ratchet strap isin use. In an illustrative example, the in-transit stowage of the excessratchet strap length may prevent entanglement with nearby objects.Further, the controlled wrapping of the in-transit stowage of the excessratchet strap length may reduce a user's effort in untangling and oruntying the strap after use. In some examples, the in-transit stowage ofthe excess ratchet strap length may avoid hazards (e.g., tripping,striking) to those nearby.

In various examples, owners may find advantage in the cache stowagefeature of the ratchet tie-down system where the straps may be woundaround the ratchet mechanism and retained in place by the elastic loop.In some embodiments, the ratchet tie-down system may facilitateself-cached stowage, e.g., to prevent entanglement with co-locatedratchet tie-down systems. Further user's may find a time benefit inremoving a ratchet tie-down system in a self-cached state, and, forexample, hassle-free deployment without having to untangle the straps.

The details of various embodiments are set forth in the accompanyingdrawings and the description below. Other features and advantages willbe apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A depicts a use case scenario of an exemplary ratchet tie-downsystem.

FIG. 1B depicts a perspective view of an exemplary ratchet mechanism inan in-transit stowed state.

FIG. 1C depicts an exemplary ratchet tie-down system in a cached stowagestate.

FIG. 1D depicts an exemplary companion hook.

FIG. 2A depicts an exploded perspective view of a ratchet mechanism withan exemplary multipurpose rotatable handgrip.

FIG. 2B depicts an assembled perspective view of a ratchet mechanismwith an exemplary multipurpose rotatable handgrip.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D depict various perspective views of an exemplarymultipurpose rotatable handgrip.

FIG. 4 depicts a plan view of an exemplary ratchet strap with the loadsecuring strap removed.

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary coupled companionhook.

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary coupled companionhook.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First,exemplary use case scenarios of an exemplary ratchet strap configuredwith a knob adapted to be gripped by a human hand to adjust the straptension are briefly introduced with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C and1D. Second, with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the discussion turns toexemplary embodiments that illustrate design of an exemplary ratchetstrap. Then, with reference to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, the design of amultipurpose rotatable handgrip is described. Next, in FIG. 4, anexemplary ratchet strap embodiment is presented. Finally, with referenceto FIGS. 5 and 6, various embodiments of a companion hook are presented.

FIG. 1A depicts a use case scenario of an exemplary ratchet tie-downsystem. A use case scenario 100 includes a ratchet mechanism 105 in aratchet tie-down system 110. The ratchet tie-down system 110 secures aload 115 in a vehicle 120. The ratchet mechanism 105 includes amultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 that is operably coupled to a driveshaft of the ratchet mechanism 105. The ratchet mechanism 105 is fixedat a proximal end to a strap 130 and at a distal end to a strap 135. Inoperation, the ratchet mechanism 105 rotates the drive shaft to spoolthe strap 130 so as to provide tension on the system 110. Whentensioned, the system 110 extends between a proximal securing hook 140coupled to a proximal end of the strap 130, and a distal securing hook145 coupled to a distal end of the strap 135. In the depicted example,an operator may advantageously actuate the handgrip 125 to manipulatethe drive shaft in order to, for example, load, tension, detension, orclear jams of the strap 135.

In the depicted figure, the proximal securing hook 140 engages aleft-side aperture on the vehicle 120, and the distal securing hook 135engages a right-side aperture on the vehicle 120. The ratchet mechanism105 is linkably coupled to the proximal strap 130, and the proximalstrap 130 is linkably coupled to the proximal hook 140. The ratchetmechanism 105 is removably and bindably coupled to the strap 135 in aspooling relationship. The distal strap 135 is linkably coupled to thedistal hook 145.

During initial deployment of the ratchet tie-down system 110,pre-tension may be applied by feeding a proximal end of the distal strap135 through an aperture in the drive shaft (as described in furtherdetail with reference to FIG. 4), pulling the threaded end through toremove most of the slack, and pretensioning the system 110 by rotatingthe multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 with the operator's hand. Thepre-tensioning operation removes additional slack and begins to make thestraps 130 and 135 taught and urges the hooks 140 and 145 to engagetheir respective attachment points. Final tension is achieved byoperating the ratchet mechanism 105, which includes hinging themechanism open and closed repeatedly to spool up the strap 135 astension increases to a desired level.

In various implementations, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 maybe adapted to be securely gripped in a hand of a user. In someembodiments, at least a portion of the multipurpose rotatable handgrip125 may be substantially elliptical in shape. In some designs, at leasta portion of the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may besubstantially spherical in shape. In various implementations, themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may include one or more gripfeatures. In some embodiments, a grip feature of the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125 may include longitudinal raised ridges and/orscalloped trenches, which may, for example, improve traction for asecure grip when handled by the user. In some embodiments, a gripfeature of the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may include knurling.

FIG. 1B depicts a perspective view of an exemplary ratchet mechanism inan in-transit stowed state. The ratchet mechanism 105 includes themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 and an elastic loop 150. In thedepicted figure, a proximal tail of the elastic loop 150 may be securedby a knot on an interior side of a wall of the ratchet mechanism 105,the tail extending through an aperture in the wall to a loop portion ofthe elastic loop 150. The elastic loop 150 retains an excess length ofthe proximal end of the strap 135 that is coiled around the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125.

In operation, a user may coil an excess ratchet strap length 155 aroundthe multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125. The user may then employ theelastic loop 150, which may be sized to stretch around the coil ofexcess ratchet strap length 155. Employment of the elastic loop 150 mayadvantageously organize and manage an otherwise loose length of webbing.In some examples, in-transit stowage of the excess ratchet strap lengthmay avoid entanglements and/or hazards (e.g., tripping, striking) tothose nearby.

FIG. 1C depicts an exemplary ratchet tie-down system in a cached stowagestate. The ratchet tie-down system 110 includes the ratchet mechanism105 with the straps 130, 135. In the depicted example, the straps 130,135 are coiled around the ratchet mechanism 105 to create a bundlesuitable, for example, for convenient stowage. To retain the straps 130,135 to the ratchet mechanism 105 in the bundled state, the elastic loop150 encircles the coiled straps and their respective hooks 140, 145. Theelastic loop 150 may be sized to stretch around the ratchet tie-downsystem 110 in the bundled state.

FIG. 1D depicts an exemplary companion hook. The distal hook 145 iscoupled to a flexible companion hook 160. The flexible companion hook160 may be a longitudinally stiff, radially deformable, shape-resilientfilament that may substantially retain its shape until at least apredetermined minimum radial deformation force is applied to a point ora segment along its length. In an illustrative example, the flexiblecompanion hook 160 may aid a user in deploying the strap 135. Theflexible companion hook 160 may be advantageously bent around or wrappedaround a nearby structure to the distal securing hook 145, holding thedistal securing hook 145 in place, until tension is applied by operationof the ratchet mechanism (FIG. 1A reference 105).

In some examples, the flexible companion hook 160 may complement thedistal securing hook 145 to, at least temporarily, bridge the gap in thehook to form an enclosed ring structure. In some examples, the hook 160may be deformed to prevent the distal hook 145 from disengaging from atarget location while the distal strap 135 is slack.

In some examples, the hook 160 may be deformed to, in effect, close theopen end of the hook 145, which may be sufficient to keep the distalhook 145 from falling off a securing point until slack is removed fromthe strap 135. In some implementations, the companion hook 160 may wraparound a nearby feature of the securing point, and may advantageouslyhold the distal hook 145 in a position suitable for engaging thesecuring point, while a user manages the proximal side of the ratchettie-down system at a remote distance from the distal hook 145. In someimplementations, the flexible companion hook 160 may advantageouslyprovide increased attaching agility in space-constrained recesses,relative to the distal hook 145.

In the depicted embodiment, the flexible companion hook 160 is fixedlycoupled to the distal hook 145 by a flexible companion hook retainingsystem 165. In the depicted embodiment, the flexible companion hookretaining system 165 includes a flat washer 170. The flat washer 170 isrivetably engaged by a rivet cap 175 and a rivet post 180. The flexiblecompanion hook retaining system 165 is retained substantially within aneyelet in the distal hook 145, and secures the flexible companion hook160 within an aperture in the rivet post 180.

In some embodiments, the companion hook 160 may attach to the distalhook 145 and/or the strap 135 without the washer 170. Some embodimentsmay include the flexible companion hook 160 being fixedly coupled to thedistal hook 145, such as by rubber encapsulating, welding and/or byend-wrapping.

In some embodiments, the flexible companion hook 160 may be adapted toswivel about a coupling point (e.g., rivet). For example, the flexiblecompanion hook 160 may be secured to an aperture on the distal end ofthe rivet post 180, after the rivet post 180, the washer 170 and therivet cap 175 have been rivetably engaged. Further the rivet engagementmay be substantially loose to allow the flexible companion hook 160 toswivel about the axis of the rivet post 180.

The proximal end of the flexible companion hook 160 may be fixedlycoupled to, for example, an eyelet. Some examples of the flexiblecompanion hook retaining system 165 may couple more than one flexiblecompanion hook 160 for coupling the flexible companion hook 160 to atarget load. In some embodiments, the flexible companion hook 160 may beintegrally formed with the distal hook 145 without the need for washers.

In an illustrative example, a construction worker may desire totransport a drywall load. The construction worker may choose a ratchettie-down system 110 which may be pre-bundled as shown in FIG. 1C. Sincethe elastic loop 150 had stayed with the ratchet tie-down system 110from a previous load hauling job, the previous construction workerconveniently gathered the ratchet tie-down system 110 in a neat bundle.The current construction worker may now unbundle the ratchet tie-downsystem by removing the elastic loop 150 and unbundling the strap 135.The construction worker may now couple the distal hook 145 to an anchorpoint on his vehicle 120. The construction worker employs the flexiblecompanion hook 160, advantageously wrapping it around the anchor pointon his vehicle 120. With the help of the flexible companion hook 160,the construction worker may quickly place the load securing strap 135over his drywall load without concern that the distal hook 145 may fallout of the anchor point. The construction worker places the proximalhook 140 into an anchor point on the opposite side of his vehicle 120,while he pulls the tail-end of the load securing strap 135 into theratchet mechanism 105. The construction worker indexes the ratchetmechanism 105 by turning the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 to aposition that provides a convenient entry and exit of the proximal endof the load securing strap 135. The construction worker now pulls theexcess strap 135 through the ratchet mechanism 105, places his thumb onthe strap drive mechanism, and rotates the handgrip 125 until a fewturns of the load securing strap 135 are in an initial spooling orbinding relationship around the strap-drive mechanism. In a brief periodof time, the construction worker has deployed the ratchet tie-downsystem 110 to the point of incipient final tensioning of the strap. Theconstruction worker now operates the ratchet mechanism 105, by openingand closing once, twice, or more times to tighten the strap 135 to adesired degree of tautness. As the construction worker is tightening thestrap 135 he may experience a jam. The worker may now hold on to theratchet mechanism 105 by the handgrip 125, lift the pawl, and let out acontrolled amount of strap length until the jam is unspooled, therebyclearing the jam. The worker may now proceed with the strap tighteningoperation. The worker finalizes the ratchet tie-down system deploymentby wrapping the excess strap length 155 around the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125, then retains the strap wrapping with the elasticloop 150. The convenience of the co-located elastic loop 150 andmultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 allows the construction worker toquickly and safely stow the excess strap length 155 while the ratchettie-down system 110 is in use under tension.

Continuing the foregoing illustrative example, when the constructionworker reaches a destination site, he removes the elastic loop from theexcess strap length 155. The excess strap length uncoils from thehandgrip 125 and falls into a neat pile. The construction worker nowgrabs the ratchet mechanism 105 by the handgrip 125, lifts the pawl, andslowly releases the tension in the strap 135. As he releases thetension, he may notice a slight load shift. The worker tightens his gripon the handgrip 125 and re-deploys the pawl to stop advancing the strap135. The worker now checks his load for balance, correcting any issues,then returns to the ratchet mechanism 105, where he continues thetension release until the strap 135 is completely released from theload. The construction worker now removes the ratchet tie-down system110 from his vehicle and wraps the strap 135 around the ratchetmechanism 105. Once completely wrapped, the worker deploys the elasticloop 150, to retain the bundle. The worker now neatly stows the ratchettie-down system 110 for the next job.

FIG. 2A depicts an exploded perspective view of a ratchet mechanism withan exemplary multipurpose rotatable handgrip. A ratchet mechanism 200includes a hook retaining structure 205 that hingedly couples with aratchet handle retaining structure 210. The hook retaining structure 205and the ratchet handle retaining structure 210 are in hingedrelationship about a ratchet axle 220. The ratchet axle 220 is slideablyengaged within the circular apertures on both the hook retainingstructure 205 and the ratchet handle retaining structure 210. Theratchet axle 220 is slidably engaged with a pair of ratchet gears 215.The two ratchet gears 215 include a crossmember through the centers,slidably engage with the longitudinal slot defined between to extensionmembers of the ratchet axle 220. In operation, rotation of the ratchetaxle 220 rotates the ratchet gears 215. In some modes of operation, theratchet gears 215 rotate in both directions about an axis normal to theplane of the ratchet gears 215, in response to rotations of the ratchetaxle 220. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of cotter pins 225laterally secure the ratchet gears 215, the hook retaining structure205, and the ratchet handle retaining structure 210, to the ratchet axle220.

One of the pair of cotter pins 225 also couples the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125 to the ratchet axle 220. In some implementations,one or both ends of the cotter pins 225 may be bent, such as with apliers or other suitable tool, so as to retain or remove each one of thecotter pins 225 from the ratchet axle 220.

In the depicted example, the ratchet gears 215 include ratchet teethradially extending from the perimeter of each of the ratchet gears 215.A ratchet tension release bar 230 is slideably retained by the ratchethandle retaining structure 210, and is in a releasably blockingrelationship with the ratchet teeth.

A ratchet pawl 235 is slideably retained by the hook retaining structure205, and is in a releasably blocking relationship with the ratchetteeth.

In a first mode of operation that occurs over a first predeterminedrange of angles between the structures 205, 210, the axle 220 is rotatedso as to spool the distal strap onto itself. In this first mode ofoperation, the ratchet pawl 235 and the ratchet tension release bar 230dynamically engage with the ratchet gears 215, each biased by arespective spring member (not shown) so as to block rotation of the axle220 in a first direction. By exercising the structure 210 open andclosed, relative to the structure 205 within the first predeterminedrange of angles. The ratchet bar 230 imparts a rotation in a seconddirection (opposite the first direction) to the axle 220 as the ratchetbar 230 positively engages one of the teeth on one or both of theratchet wheels 215. As the structure 210 is opened in this first mode ofoperation, the maximum open angle is limited by a radial step member 255that defines an increase in radius of an annular ring portion of thestructure 205. As the structure 210 is closed in this first mode ofoperation, the minimum open angle, in some embodiments, is approached asthe structures 205, 210 come into contact with each other.

To engage a second mode of operation, the ratchet bar 230 is pulledradially away from the ratchet wheel 215 to allow the ratchet bar 230 toride on top of the radial step member 255 over a second predeterminedangular range. The radius of the step member is greater than the radiusof the annular ring portion of the structure 205 corresponding to thefirst predetermined range of angles. Being lifted radially away fromengagement with the ratchet wheel 215, the ratchet bar 230 slidablyengages the radial step member 255 over this second predeterminedangular range. As such, in this second mode of operation, a user can usethe multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 to impart free rotation of theratchet axle 220 in only the second direction, while rotation of theratchet axle 220 is blocked by engagement of the ratchet teeth with thepawl 235. In this second mode of operation, the handgrip 125 mayadvantageously provide for a controlled leverage to rotate the axle 220in only one orientation, i.e., the second direction.

To engage a third mode of operation, the ratchet bar 230 is translatedto a notch 260 defined by a decreased radius forming a trailing edge ofthe radial step member 255, and an adjacent second step member thatlimits the angular travel of the ratchet bar 230. In this end-of-travel,or home, position, a cam portion of the annular ring portion of thestructure 210 radially displaces the pawl 235 such that neither the bar230 nor the pawl 235 are able to engage the ratchet wheel 215. As such,in this third mode of operation, a user can use the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125 to impart free rotation of the ratchet axle 220in both the first and second directions as desired. In this third modeof operation, the handgrip 125 may advantageously provide for acontrolled leverage, for example, to position the axle 220 toconveniently load or unload the strap, pretension or remove tension, orclear a jam of the distal strap.

To enhance leverage, the depicted exemplary multipurpose rotatablehandgrip 125 includes a grip feature 240. In some embodiments, themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may be referred to as a knob. Theratchet handle retaining structure 210 hingedly couples to the hookretaining structure 205, forming a hinge axis 245. The ratchet handleretaining structure 210 includes a retaining loop attachment aperture250 for a retaining accessory such as, for example, the elastic loop 150of FIG. 1C.

FIG. 2B depicts an assembled perspective view of a ratchet mechanismwith an exemplary multipurpose rotatable handgrip. The hook retainingstructure 205 hingedly couples with the ratchet handle retainingstructure 210. The hinging point includes the ratchet axle 220, holdingthe structures 205 and 210 in hinged relationship. The ratchet gears 215along with the cotter pins 225 hold the ratchet axle 220 in place. Theratchet axle 220 may be a two-piece strap-drive that is held in place bythe multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 and the ratchet gears 215. Thegap between the two pieces of the strap-drive, or the ratchet axle 220,provides a slot for the strap to enter and wind around the ratchet axle220. In some embodiments, the ratchet axle 220 may be a one-piece strapdrive that is connected within the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125.

The retaining loop attachment aperture 250 is depicted within both thehook retaining structure 205 and the ratchet handle retaining structure210. In some embodiments, the aperture 250 may be located on one or morestructures. One or more of the apertures 250 may be employed to hold oneor more accessories (see, e.g., the elastic loop 150 of FIG. 1B). Insome examples, one or more of the apertures 250 may be unused.

In various implementations, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 mayinclude one or more grip features. In some embodiments, the grip feature240 of the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may include longitudinalgrooves. In some embodiments, a grip feature of the multipurposerotatable handgrip 125 may include spiraled scalloped trenches, forexample.

In some embodiments, the ratchet mechanism 200 may include a moldedplastic handle molded around the distal end of the ratchet handleretraining structure 210. The molded plastic handle may be a softer andsmoother material than the ratchet handle retaining structure 210, whichmay advantageously provide scratch resistance. In some examples, themolded plastic handle may provide increased user comfort duringdeployment.

In some embodiments, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may beadvantageously adapted to receive a coiled strap. In some examples, themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may include an elongated shaftadapted to receive substantially long coiled straps. In some examples,the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may be sized to be gripped bytypical adult human hand sizes.

In some implementations, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may beprovided in various diameters with a substantially symmetrical shapeabout an axis of rotation. In some examples, a multipurpose rotatablehandgrip may be sized and configured for gripping to suit various sizesof ratchet tie-down systems. For example, heavy-duty ratchet tie-downsystems may employ a substantially enlarged symmetric multipurposerotatable handgrip.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D depict various perspective views of an exemplarymultipurpose rotatable handgrip.

In FIG. 3A, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 is depicted in aside view illustrating the grip feature 240. In the elevation view ofFIG. 3A, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 is illustrated assubstantially symmetric about an axis of rotation and elliptical inshape. In the depicted example, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125is a knob adapted for mounting by a securing tab 305, which is adaptedto receive a radially oriented securing pin, such as, for example, thecotter pin 225 of FIG. 2A.

In FIG. 3B, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 is depicted with theexemplary securing tab 305 configured to align with a securing aperturewithin the ratchet axle (ratchet axle 220 of FIG. 2A) and to be securedin place with one of the cotter pins 225 of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

In FIG. 3C, a top view of the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125illustrates the full perimeter distribution of the exemplary gripfeature 240.

In FIG. 3D, a cross-sectional elevation view depicts construction of themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125. In some embodiments, themultipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may be permanently connected to theratchet mechanism, which may advantageously prevent loss. For example,the multipurpose rotatable handgrip 125 may be integrally formed with,and/or formed of the same material as, for example, the ratchet axle 220of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 4 depicts a plan view of an exemplary ratchet strap with the loadsecuring strap removed. A ratchet tie-down system 400 includes theratchet handle retaining structure 210 hingedly coupled to the hookretaining structure 205, forming the hinge axis 245. In the illustratedembodiment, the ratchet tie-down system 400 is hinged open in a fullyextended state. The ratchet tie-down system 400 includes the ratchetpawl 235. The ratchet tension release bar 230 is slideably retained bythe ratchet handle retaining structure 210. In the fully extended state,the ratchet pawl 235 and the ratchet tension release bar 230 are pulledaway from the ratchet teeth, allowing the multipurpose rotatablehandgrip 125 to rotate the ratchet axle 220 freely in either direction.In the depicted example, a proximate strap 405 is retained by the hookretaining structure 205. The proximate strap 405 linkably couples thehook retaining structure 205 to the proximal hook 140.

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary coupled companionhook. In the depicted figure, the distal securing hook 145 includes acompanion hook 505. The companion hook 505 is coupled to the distalsecuring hook 145 along part of its length. In some examples, thecoupling may be about half of the overall length of the distal hook. Thehooks 145 and 505 may be coupled by the rubberized coating. In someexamples, the hooks 145 and 505 may be initially coupled by a bindingwire wrapped around the two hooks 145 and 505, then a rubberized coatingadded to the two hooks 145 and 505. Further, the wrapping in conjunctionwith the rubber coating may for a substantially strong bond between thetwo hooks 145 and 505, and allow a free end of the companion hook 505 tobe operable to assisting with positioning of the hook 145, holding it inplace during deployment. In some examples, the hooks 145 and 505 may befused into the same plane. In some embodiments, the hooks 145 and 505may be fused along the strap linking radius. In some embodiments, thehooks 145 and 505 may be curved in opposite directions. In someexamples, the depicted configuration of the companion hook 505 may beimplemented on a proximal hook, such as, for example, the proximal hook140 of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary coupled companionhook. The distal securing hook 145 includes a companion hook 605. Thecompanion hook 605 is coupled to the distal securing hook 145 by acompanion hook retaining system 610. In some examples, the companionhook retaining system 610 may be implemented with a fender washer oneach side of the strap retaining portion of the hook 145. Further, thefender washers may be fastened with nut and bolt hardware, for example,to the hooks 145 and 605. In some embodiments, the companion hook 605may be folded in half and wrapped around the fastening hardware, asdepicted. In some embodiments, two or more companion hooks 605 may beemployed. In some examples, as in FIG. 5, the depicted configuration ofthe companion hook 605 may be implemented on the proximal hook (FIG. 1A,reference 140).

Although various embodiments have been described with reference to thefigures, other embodiments are possible. Various embodiments of ratchetstrap designs in accordance with the present disclosure may provide animproved ratchet strap which places more control and jam-clearingcapability safely into the hands of an operator. In some embodiments,ratchet strap devices, sometimes referred to as “tie-down straps,” mayuse a ratchet mechanism to put tension on a strap anchored to twopoints. Some ratchets configured in ratchet straps may include clam-likelevers and a ratchet centered around a strap-drive that is slotted toreceive the passive strap. In various implementations, operation of thelevers rotates the strap-drive, which may create tension on the strap.Further, a gear and pawl may prevent the strap-drive from moving in theopposite direction (unwinding). In some examples, to release the strap,the pawl may be disengaged and the strap tension may be released.

In some embodiments, the ratchet tie-down system may prevent loadrelease due to handle “flip-open”. Some examples may prevent abruptdisengagement, and may prevent quick release of balanced loads that maybe held in that position by the straps. In some examples, the ratchettie-down system may promote a controlled release of a load. Further, acontrolled release may advantageously avoid rebounding and tipping ofloads, and avoid damage to the item and/or harm to the operator.

In some embodiments, the design may incorporate a strap-drive devicethat incorporates a ball that may comfortably fit the human hand. Theball may create a system of improved control for loading and unloading aratchet tie-down system, and may secure the items being tied down. Invarious implementations, the hand-operated drive mechanism maysignificantly improve safety and efficiency of use.

In some examples, a two-piece strap-drive of a current ratchet tie-downsystem may be retrofitted with a ball integrated onto a shaft/axle thatis slotted, (two-prong fork) to receive a load securing strap.

In some examples, the term “ball” may refer to a device coupled to theaxle of the ratchet mechanism for direct control of the drive by thehuman hand. The ball may allow a user to more precisely and safelycontrol the operation of the ratchet tie-down system. In variousimplementations, the ratchet mechanism within a ratchet tie-down systemmay include a rotating spool or axle which may be a machined or a castmetal two-prong fork that may integrate a ball, on one or both sides,configured in size to comfortably fit a human hand.

In some embodiments, the hand-driven ball device may facilitate operatorcontrol of the ratchet release mechanism and may prevent abruptunexpected disengagement of the release mechanism. Thus, in this safeoperation, the operator may control the strap release-tension with onehand using the hand-operated ball, while at the same time may triggerthe strap release mechanism with the other hand.

An elastic loop may permit the user to neatly stow the strap by wrappingit around a body of the ratchet module and capture it with the elasticloop under tension. The elastic loop may promote a controlled wrap ofthe strap and therefore reduce the time and effort to unwrap and deploya ratchet strap from the cached stowage state.

In some examples, the ratchet tie-down system may include a flexiblecompanion hook 160 which has a bendable property and may support theweight of the ratchet tie-down system such that the distal securing hookmay be temporarily secured using the flexible companion hook 160 whilethe user manages the proximal end.

In some examples, the washers included in the flexible companion hookretaining system may be configured with a sufficient (e.g., apredetermined minimum) space between, to permit the flexible companionhook to rotate about the eyelet of the distal securing hook 145.

In some examples, the detachable strap, the flexible companion hook, thedistal securing hook 145 along with the flexible companion hookretaining system may be referred to as a “load securing strap”. In someimplementations, the flexible companion hook 160 may facilitate remotesecuring of the distal securing hook to the target object, for example,by deforming to wrap around a portion of the strap, such as when theload securing strap may be wrapped around the object (e.g., tree, fencepost, structural beam).

In an exemplary use case configuration, with the excess length of theload securing strap retained by an elastic loop in a bundle coiledaround the knob, a user may employ the ratchet tie-down system to securea load. As the load is cinched (tightened) to a vehicle there may be aresulting excess length of the load securing strap. In some examples,the excess length may be referred to as a tail-end. To facilitate safedeployment of the ratchet tie-down system this excess length mayadvantageously be wound around the multipurpose rotatable handgrip. Theexcess length of the strap may be coiled in bundle around themultipurpose rotatable handgrip. The bundle may be secured with anelastic loop. The elastic loop may be coupled to the ratchet handleretaining structure by a retaining loop attachment apertures.

In some embodiments, a short strap may be linkably coupled to theratchet handle retaining structure. The short strap may be coupled to adistal securing hook.

In some embodiments, a ratchet tie-down system may be neatly stowed. Theunused strap bundle may be secured around the ratchet tie-down systemwith an integral elastic loop. In some examples, the elastic loop may besecured to retaining loop attachment apertures within the ratchetmechanism.

In various examples, a user may place the load securing strap throughthe backside of the ratchet mechanism, then feed it through the axle.Further the user may then place a thumb on the strap within the axle,roll it over with the multipurpose rotatable handgrip and then pull thetail-end straight out. In some examples, the multipurpose rotatablehandgrip may provide a straight-forward method to apply pretension onthe strap. In this example, the user may pull on the ratchet mechanismuntil the proximal hook is tight, then reel in the load securing strapwith the multipurpose rotatable handgrip until it is hand tight. Theuser may then ratchet the mechanism using the ratchet lever. The usermay beneficially keep the entire deployment mechanism together and inplace. To remove the ratchet tie-down system, the user may release thepawl with one hand, holding the multipurpose rotatable handgrip in theother hand. The user may, in this example, facilitate rolling the axlebackward, and pull the strap back out. The user may advantageouslyremove the strap even if the ratchet mechanism is clogged or jammed, andmay advantageously take tension out of the load in a controlled manner,for example, in the case where a strap was to rebound or recoil.

Various examples may provide one or more advantages. For example, theknob may be configured with indentions to facilitate grip. Someembodiments may be configured with a bendable hook to temporarily securea strap end. In some embodiments, the bendable hook may be adapted toswivel about a coupling point (e.g., rivet). The proximal end of thebendable hook may be fixedly coupled to, for example, an eyelet. Variousembodiments may be configured with an elastic loop sized to retain thestrap when in-transit or in-storage.

In some embodiments, the multipurpose rotatable handgrip may include acentrally located radial aperture. In such embodiments, the user mayinsert a screwdriver to gain a leverage advantage.

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a ratchet tie-down systemconfigured with a multipurpose rotatable handgrip adapted to a humanhand, an elastic retaining loop and a bendable companion hook. In anillustrative example, an operator may find benefit in deployment time ofa ratchet tie-down system by employing the multipurpose rotatablehandgrip to facilitate initial winding of a load securing strap. In someimplementations, operators may employ the multipurpose rotatablehandgrip as a convenient location to wind excess strap length, inconjunction with the elastic retaining loop for in-transit stowage. Invarious examples, owners may find advantage in the cache stowage featureof the ratchet tie-down system where the straps may be wound around theratchet mechanism and retained in place by the elastic loop.

In some implementations, a kit may include a set of one or more ratchetmodules equipped with at least an equal number of handgrips for manuallymanipulating the ratcheting operations, and specifically the drive axle,in certain operating modes in, for example, the manners describedherein. The kit may include the assisting distal hook finger member,and/or elastic loops that may optionally be secured to the ratchetmodule body. The kit may include paper, audio, and/or video instructionsfor loading, unloading, pre-tensioning, detensioning, and clearing jamsusing the access and control provided by the handgrip in accordance withvarious embodiments described herein. The instructions in the kit mayfurther include a description of how to retrofit a conventional ratchetmechanism to upgrade it with the handgrip, how to upgrade the distalhook to include the assistance of a deformable finger member asdescribed, and/or instructions for upgrading to include an elastic loopthat may be secured to the webbing or the housing to provide theconveniences of the elastic loop as described herein.

In some examples, the kit may include accessories and parts forretrofitting a distal hook and strap to include a deformable finger,such as with fender washers and associated components as described. Somekits may include components and instructions for installing the elasticloop accessory in a retrofit kit.

A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it willbe understood that various modification may be made. For example,advantageous results may be achieved if the steps of the disclosedtechniques were performed in a different sequence, or if components ofthe disclosed systems were combined in a different manner, or if thecomponents were supplemented with other components. Accordingly, otherimplementations are contemplated, within the scope of the followingclaims.

1. A ratcheted strap control system comprising: a length of webbinghaving a free proximal end and a hook coupled to a distal end; a ratchetmodule configured to spool the length of webbing with a ratchetingaction, the ratchet module comprising: a first base structure having afirst annular ring portion about a hinge axis and with a first radiusover a first predetermined range of angles, and a step portion having asecond radius greater than the first radius, and a notch at an end oftravel angular position and defining a third radius between the firstradius and the second radius; a second base structure having a secondannular ring portion about the hinge axis and with a cam portion; anaxle extending along and configured to rotate about the hinge axis andto couple the first base structure to the second base structure in ahinged relationship between a closed position and an open position,wherein the axle defines an aperture configured to receive and retainthe free end of the webbing in a spooling relationship, and wherein theaxle is configured to spool in the webbing in response to the axlerotating in an opening direction; a ratchet wheel coupled in a fixedrotating relationship with the axle about the hinge axis, the ratchetwheel providing a plurality of ratchet teeth radially extending from aperimeter of the ratchet wheel; a ratchet pawl slidably carried in aslot formed in the first base structure, the pawl configured in areleasable blocking relationship with the plurality of ratchet teethagainst rotation in a closing direction; a ratchet bar slidably carriedin a slot formed in the second base structure, the ratchet barconfigured in a biased relationship to dynamically engage any one of theplurality of ratchet teeth; and, a compliant, deformable, shaperesilient member coupled to the distal end of the length of webbing andadapted to cooperate with the hook to maintain the hook in engagementwith an attachment structure while an operator is remote from the hookand while the length of webbing is slack.
 2. The ratcheted strap controlsystem of claim 1, further comprising an axially symmetric handgripconfigured to couple in a fixed rotational relationship to the axle,wherein: (1) in a first mode of operation that occurs over the firstpredetermined range of angles between the first base structure and thesecond base structure, the pawl engages the ratchet wheel to blockrotation of the ratchet wheel in the closing direction, and the ratchetbar is configured to impart rotation to the axle as the ratchet barrotates in the opening direction; (2) in a second mode of operation, theratchet bar disengages from the ratchet wheel in response to engagementwith the step portion such that the handgrip is operable to impartrotation to the axle in the opening direction in response to operatorinput while the ratchet pawl blocks rotation of the axle in the closingdirection; and, (3) in a third mode of operation, the pawl disengagesfrom the ratchet wheel in response to being displaced by the cam portionwhen the ratchet bar is positioned in the notch, such that the handgripis operable to impart rotation to the axle in the opening direction andthe closing direction in response to operator input.
 3. The ratchetedstrap control system of claim 2, wherein the handgrip further comprisesa neck portion and a substantially spherical bulbous portion.
 4. Theratcheted strap control system of claim 3, wherein the handgrip furthercomprises a pair of apertures on opposing sides of the neck portion andconfigured to releasably couple to the axle.
 5. The ratcheted strapcontrol system of claim 4, wherein the axle comprises correspondingapertures that, when aligned with the pair of apertures in the handgrip,are adapted to receive a coupling member that couples the handgrip inthe fixed rotational relationship with the axle.
 6. The ratcheted strapcontrol system of claim 2, wherein the handgrip further defines anaxially symmetric profile sized for a secure grip by a hand of an adultoperator.
 7. The ratcheted strap control system of claim 2, wherein thehandgrip further comprises axially extending scalloped contours arrangedsymmetrically to form a grip surface.
 8. The ratcheted strap controlsystem of claim 1, further comprising a retainer comprising an elasticloop portion coupled to the first base structure, the elastic loop sizedto securely retain a predetermined length of the webbing when wrappedaround the first base structure and the second base structure in theclosed position.
 9. The ratcheted strap control system of claim 8,wherein the elastic loop portion is sized to a diameter that, when in astretched state, is adapted to securely retain the predetermined lengthof the webbing when wrapped around the first and second base structuresin the closed position.
 10. The ratcheted strap control system of claim2, wherein the handgrip is adapted to releasably couple to the axle. 11.An apparatus comprising: a ratchet module configured to spool a lengthof a webbing with a ratcheting action, the ratchet module comprising: afirst base structure having a first annular ring portion about a hingeaxis and with a first radius over a first predetermined range of angles,and a step portion having a second radius greater than the first radius,and a notch at an end of travel angular position and defining a thirdradius between the first radius and the second radius; a second basestructure having a second annular ring portion about the hinge axis andwith a cam portion; an axle extending along and configured to rotateabout the hinge axis and to couple the first base structure to thesecond base structure in a hinged relationship between a closed positionand an open position, wherein the axle defines an aperture configured toreceive and retain a free end of a strap in a spooling relationship, andwherein the axle is configured to spool in the strap in response to theaxle rotating in an opening direction; a ratchet wheel coupled in afixed rotating relationship with the axle about the hinge axis, theratchet wheel providing a plurality of ratchet teeth radially extendingfrom a perimeter of the ratchet wheel; a ratchet pawl slidably carriedin a slot formed in the first base structure, the pawl configured in areleasable blocking relationship with the plurality of ratchet teethagainst rotation in a closing direction; a ratchet bar slidably carriedin a slot formed in the second base structure, the ratchet barconfigured in a biased relationship to dynamically engage any one of theplurality of ratchet teeth; and, a hook coupled to a distal end of thelength of a webbing and a compliant, deformable, shape resilient memberadapted to cooperate with the hook to maintain the hook in engagementwith an attachment structure while an operator is remote from the hookand while the webbing is slack.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, furthercomprising an axially symmetric handgrip configured to couple in a fixedrotational relationship to the axle, wherein: (1) in a first mode ofoperation that occurs over the first predetermined range of anglesbetween the first base structure and the second base structure, the pawlengages the ratchet wheel to block rotation of the ratchet wheel in theclosing direction, and the ratchet bar is configured to impart rotationto the axle as the ratchet bar rotates in the opening direction; (2) ina second mode of operation, the ratchet bar disengages from the ratchetwheel in response to engagement with the step portion such that thehandgrip is operable to impart rotation to the axle in the openingdirection in response to operator input while the ratchet pawl blocksrotation of the axle in the closing direction; and, (3) in a third modeof operation, the pawl disengages from the ratchet wheel in response tobeing displaced by the cam portion when the ratchet bar is positioned inthe notch, such that the handgrip is operable to impart rotation to theaxle in the opening direction and the closing direction in response tooperator input.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the handgripfurther comprises a neck portion and a substantially spherical bulbousportion, and the handgrip further comprises a pair of apertures onopposing sides of the neck portion and configured to releasably coupleto the axle, wherein the axle comprises corresponding apertures that,when aligned with the pair of apertures in the handgrip, are adapted toreceive a coupling member that couples the handgrip in the fixedrotational relationship with the axle.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12,wherein the handgrip further defines an axially symmetric profile sizedfor a secure grip by a hand of an adult operator, the handgrip furthercomprising axially extending scalloped contours arranged symmetricallyto form a grip surface.
 15. The apparatus of claim 11, furthercomprising a retainer comprising an elastic loop portion and a proximalattachment strap coupled to the first base structure, the elastic loopsized to securely retain a predetermined length of webbing when wrappedaround the first base structure and the second base structure in aclosed position.
 16. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising anelastic loop portion, wherein the elastic loop portion is sized to adiameter that, when in a stretched state, is adapted to securely retainthe predetermined length of the webbing when wrapped around the firstand second base structures in the closed position.
 17. The apparatus ofclaim 15, wherein the proximal attachment strap is securely attached toone of the first base structure and the second base structure. 18.(canceled)
 19. (canceled)